To get around in Ottawa, you can use a variety of transportation options, including public transit, taxis, ride-hailing services, and car rentals, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Ottawa is easily accessible by air, with Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) being the main entry point for international travelers. The airport is located about 10 kilometers south of downtown Ottawa and offers direct flights to several major hubs in the United States, Europe, and other parts of Canada. You can also enter Ottawa by car or bus from neighboring cities, such as Montreal or Toronto, via the Trans-Canada Highway or other major routes. Additionally, Ottawa is connected to the United States via the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge, making it a convenient entry point for those traveling from the US.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus or train from other major Canadian cities, such as Toronto or Montreal, to Ottawa's central station. Several bus companies, including Greyhound Canada and Orléans Express, operate daily services to Ottawa, while VIA Rail provides train services from various parts of Canada. The city is also accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to other parts of Canada and the US. For example, the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 417) connects Ottawa to Toronto and Montreal, while Highway 416 connects the city to the US border.
Domestic Flights
For domestic travel within Canada, Ottawa is well-connected to other major cities, including Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, with several airlines operating daily flights. Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines are some of the major airlines that offer domestic flights to and from Ottawa. You can book your flights online through the airlines' websites or through travel agencies, and prices vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. On average, a one-way domestic flight from Ottawa to Toronto can cost between $200 and $500, while a flight to Vancouver can cost between $400 and $800.
Trains & Rail
Ottawa has a moderate rail network, with VIA Rail providing train services to several parts of Canada, including Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City. The trains are comfortable and offer a scenic way to travel, with onboard amenities such as food and beverage services, and electrical outlets. You can book your train tickets online through the VIA Rail website or at the train station, and prices vary depending on the route and class of service. For example, a one-way ticket from Ottawa to Toronto can cost between $60 and $200, depending on the class of service and how far in advance you book.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies, such as Greyhound Canada and Orléans Express, operate daily services to and from Ottawa, connecting the city to other major Canadian cities. The buses are comfortable and offer a convenient way to travel, with onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and restrooms. You can book your bus tickets online through the bus companies' websites or at the bus station, and prices vary depending on the route and how far in advance you book. For example, a one-way ticket from Ottawa to Toronto can cost between $20 and $50, depending on the bus company and how far in advance you book.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Ottawa | $3-$5 | OC Transpo operates an extensive network of buses throughout the city |
| Taxi | Ottawa | $2.50/km | Available at taxi stands or by phone |
| Ride-Hailing | Ottawa | $10-$20 | Uber operates in Ottawa, with prices varying depending on demand |
| Bike-Share | Ottawa | $2-$5 | VeloGO operates a bike-sharing system with stations throughout the city |
| Car-Sharing | Ottawa | $10-$20 | Car-sharing services such as Car2Go operate in Ottawa, with prices varying depending on usage |
Driving
- To drive in Ottawa, you need a valid driver's license from your home country or a Canadian driver's license, and car rental companies such as Enterprise and Hertz have locations at the airport and in the city.
- The road quality in Ottawa is generally good, with well-maintained highways and streets, but be aware of winter driving conditions, as the city can experience heavy snowfall and icy roads.
- Fuel costs in Ottawa are relatively high, with gas prices averaging around $1.20 per liter, and you can find gas stations throughout the city.
- When renting a car, be sure to check the vehicle's condition and insurance options, and consider renting a car with winter tires if you plan to drive during the winter months.
- Be aware of parking regulations in Ottawa, as some areas have restricted parking or require payment, and consider using a parking app such as ParkMe to find and pay for parking.
- When driving in Ottawa, be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, as the city has a strong cycling culture and pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic congestion in Ottawa, especially during rush hour, and consider using public transit or carpooling to reduce your travel time.
- Use a reliable map or GPS to navigate the city, as some streets can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors.
- Consider purchasing a Presto card, which can be used to pay for public transit fares, including buses and the O-Train.
- Be cautious of scammers who may approach you at the airport or bus station, and always use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services.
- Download the OC Transpo app to plan your route and track your bus or train in real-time.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected trip cancellations or interruptions.
- Be aware of road closures and construction in Ottawa, which can cause delays and detours, and check the city's website for up-to-date information on road conditions.
- Use cash or credit cards to pay for transportation, as not all providers accept debit cards or mobile payments.